Talks to tackle homelessness in Parkes and Forbes

It has been predicted both Forbes and Parkes will need their own youth accommodation centres to help deal with a rising youth homelessness problem in the region.

Representatives from both town's councils have met to discuss forming a partnership to battle the issue, after reports the problem has worsened over the last three years.

The Mayor of Forbes Ron Penny says more meetings are being planned and government funding is being investigated.

He says there is a centre in Forbes called Havannah House, a Christian centre which provides accommodation for people overcoming addiction or personal problems, which could be replicated in Parkes.

"Both towns have the same problem and our facility, while it's a fairly large one - Havannah House, would not be big enough to be able to cater for all.

"We need to talk, we need to work through these issues and see if there's state or federal funding that may be able to help further solve the problems that we have."

Councillor Penny says he wants to meet with the owners of Havannah House to see if it needs more beds.

"I would imagine there's going to have to be two centres but because we have Havannah House we will have to go and talk to the people who run Havannah House, who do an outstanding job to try and see how we can help or further improve for the youth of this town.

"Parkes will be looking to do the same, so between the two councils we can hopefully improve that position."